Chapter 142: Unity
**Ancient One**
I had originally only wanted to sample their essence after I had encountered them. That taste became an addiction. I used the trials to filter their essence. Clint's essence mirrors my own, and it was easy to use him for my needs. However, the more I watched Avery with her men, the more power I saw within her. Her essence was untainted despite the cruelties done to her. I need her light just as she needs my darkness. She could be my mate, but I won’t know unless I test her further. Even then, could the proud dragon in her accept such a thing?
Dragons by nature have always been too proud to consort with darkness, let alone mate with it. I am no normal Stirgoi because my darkness runs so deep. I possessed it before I was cursed. The curse just fed my darkness. If Avery is my mate, her group can free me…she can free me, but will they? Dragons are not allied with other species, but this group is different. They accepted Draven and Rory. Perhaps, this is the start of a future beyond all of our expectations.
The group stands united before me, their bond a tangible force in the face of my demand. Clint, now transformed by the darkness, radiates a power that is both terrifying and mesmerizing to them. His eyes, once piercing blue, now glow with an otherworldly light, his presence commanding yet familiar. I know the reason for all of this, but they don’t and wouldn’t understand if I tried to tell them. No doubt they would call me a liar, but a darkness existed in Naga long ago, and it appears that Clint inherited the most. The group exchanges determined glances, their resolve unshaken, as they prepare to face Cora with Clint’s newfound strength. While I stand in the shadows watching. I am nowhere near done with this group yet, so I will allow them to handle their unfinished business with Cora, before my final test.
But as they steel themselves for the battle ahead, a sudden shift in the atmosphere catches their attention. The air crackles with energy, and a blinding light descends upon them, enveloping them in its radiance. When the light fades, I stand before them. I have decided to bestow a small gift, but it does come with a price. “Your unity has impressed me. In the face of trials that would break lesser beings, you have stood together, unyielding. For this, I offer you a temporary alliance, and with it, a gift that may alter the course of your destiny.”
Avery steps forward, her regal presence undiminished, her eyes piercing through me. “What is this gift you speak of?” she asks, her voice steady despite the awe that stirs within her. I want to touch her, but I refrain. She is so pure…so perfect.
I raise a hand, and a shimmering orb of light appears, floating between us. “This is the Essence of Unity. It grants one of you the ability to merge your strengths, your powers, and your very essences into a single, unstoppable force. But beware, this power comes with a cost. The one who wields it will bear the weight of your collective souls, and should they fall, so too shall you all.”
James steps forward, his towering frame exuding confidence and protectiveness. “Who among us will wield this power?” he asks, his green eyes scanning the group.
I smile, a gesture that is both gentle and knowing. “That choice is yours to make. But remember, the one who takes on this burden must be willing to sacrifice their individuality for the greater good. They will become the embodiment of your unity, but they will also be the target of your enemies’ greatest efforts to destroy you.”
Avery’s mind races as she considers the implications. She looks at her mates—Cassius, Clint, Conner, and James—each of them strong, capable, and fiercely loyal. But the decision weighs heavily on her, for she knows that whoever takes on this power will be forever changed. I enjoy watching her even though I know what their decision will be.
Clint, still radiating the darkness that now courses through him, speaks up. “I’ve already merged with the darkness. Perhaps I am the one best suited to bear this additional burden. I’ve proven that I can retain my essence even in the face of such transformation.”
Cassius places a hand on Clint’s shoulder, his blue eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern. “You’ve already sacrificed much, brother. Are you certain you’re willing to take on more?”
Clint’s gaze softens as he looks at Avery, his love for her evident in every line of his body. “For her, for all of you, I would bear any burden. But this decision must be made together. We are a unit, and we must choose as one.”
Conner, ever the strategist, steps forward, his bright blue eyes thoughtful. “If Clint takes on this power, it could amplify the darkness within him. We must consider the risks. Perhaps one of us who hasn’t been tainted by such forces would be a better choice.”
James’s expression darkens, his protective instincts flaring. “I will not stand idly by while any of you risk yourselves. If this power is necessary to defeat Cora, then I will take it. I am the King of Kings, and it is my duty to protect you all.”
Avery raises a hand, silencing the debate. “This decision cannot be made out of duty or sacrifice alone. It must be made with love and trust. We are a family, and we must choose the one who can best wield this power without losing themselves.”
I nod, my gaze sweeping over the group. “Your bond is indeed remarkable. But time is of the essence. Cora’s forces grow stronger by the moment as more of yours fall. You must decide now, or risk losing everything.” I am still intrigued by this group. They continue to impress me more than any other that I have ever encountered. I want to help them, but I also want to have a human body again.
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